Summer in Arkansas is undoubtedly a wonderful time of year, and it's especially delightful for kids. Going to camp is an awesome experience for every student and a great opportunity to make new friends and memories, and make funky little crafts to take home and show off. Summer camp is also a great chance for today's youth to learn not just social skills but also physical skills (rope climbing is a distinct summer memory!). These summer camps in Arkansas are just a few of the state's many camp options but are all great getaways to plan ahead for.

1. High Point Leadership Camp, Hot Springs Village

This is "not your average summer camp!" High Point aims to train the next generation of Christian leaders. Along with enjoying traditional games and activities, campers will have time for personal growth and quiet time along with opportunities for spiritual worship and small group interaction. This camp is geared toward ages 14-19.

2. Camp Aldersgate, Little Rock

Camp Aldersgate’s summer camps provide a traditional residential camp experience for children challenged by medical conditions or disabilities. The season consists of five "MedCamp" sessions dedicated to children with specific conditions or disabilities, as well as two "Kota Camp" sessions that provide an inclusive camping environment for children with and without disabilities.

3. Camp Solgohachia, Solgohachia: CLOSED

This Christian camp offers worship along with an active week full of traditional camping activities including kayaking, crafts, hiking, archery, ziplines, and more. The camp takes place at the Ozark Conference Center.

Unfortunately, Camp Solgohachia is permanently closed.

4. Brookhill Ranch, Hot Springs Village

This Christian summer camp is designed for kids to experience a little bit of country life. Campers at Brookhill Ranch stay active with traditional activities like crafts, fishing, horseback riding, and archery. But there’s also a newspaper staff, cheerleading, and water activities.

5. Boys Soccer Junior and Senior Academy Summer Residential Camp, Conway

The Boys Junior Academy will feature local club and high school instructors. Current and former UCA players will help the staff coaches all week long. The Boys Senior Academy will feature a more intense and physically demanding week of instruction for the player looking to be evaluated and trained like a college soccer player.

6. Arkansas Razorback Football High School Camp, Fayetteville

Get up close and learn from the Arkansas Razorbacks! Players work directly with the University of Arkansas coaching staff and lower division coaches to improve their overall football skills specific to each player’s position. There will be 7-on-7 games for the skill players and weight training and instruction for the lineman. Shoulder pads and helmets are required.

7. Camp Subiaco, Subiaco

At Camp Subiaco, boys enjoy a fun-filled week of go-carts, archery, boating, fishing, overnight camp-outs, swimming, and more. The fee includes all meals and snacks and a camp T-shirt.

8. Ferncliff Camp, Little Rock

Choose from about 20 themed overnight/ day camps where kids of all ages can have fun and grow their faith. Activities at Ferncliff include hiking, swimming, canoeing, fishing, large group games, crafts, large group worship, small group Bible study, games, campfires, and special events.

9. Camp Tahkodah, Floral

Owned and operated by Harding University, and located in a gorgeous slice of the Ozark Mountains, Camp Tahkodah is about faith, fun, and friendship. Campers enjoy daily outdoor Bible classes, horseback riding, swimming, softball, basketball, ping pong, tennis, hayrides, archery, volleyball, crafts, canoeing, fishing, picnics, hikes, Bible bees, talent nights, and other memorable experiences.

10. Honors Symposium at Harding Summer Academic Institute, Searcy

Honors Symposium is a unique experience where high school students grow spiritually and academically. This is accomplished by daily engagement with Harding professors and mentoring with some of Harding’s student counselors. Three hours of university credit are awarded to all who successfully complete the Symposium. This credit is transferable to the college or university of the participant’s choice. But in addition to the symposium, you'll find a whole host of summer programs here for all ages, so definitely check them out!

11. Ozark Mission Project, Conway

Ozark Mission Project is a nonprofit mission of the Arkansas Area United Methodist Church. The organization brings church youth groups to campsites around Arkansas where they engage with the surrounding communities and serve neighbors who need minor construction and yard work.

12. Summer Elite Multi-Day Camp-Harding Softball, Searcy

Much like the other sports camps above, this camp focuses on both individual and team skill development for competitive players. Harding Softball campers will receive skill instruction in all defensive position groups. Offensive skills taught include hitting, slapping, bunting, and base running. Campers will also be divided into competitive teams and participate in games and/or scrimmages.

13. Arkansas 4-H Camps, Little Rock

The Arkansas 4-H Center hosts a variety of overnight camps year round. Activities are varied for a well-rounded experience, and ages and costs are dependent on the specific camp. Visit the website for a complete list of camps and activities.

14. Camp Ozark, Mt. Ida

Formerly called "Ozark Boys Camp," this popular mixed summer camp in Arkansas in the Ouachita National Forest opened its gates in 1949. Since 1985, it has grown from 18 cabins to 80 and from serving 375 campers to over 5,000 each summer. Camp Ozark campers enjoy waterslides, rock climbing, and positive social interaction amongst their age group.

Every year is a new opportunity for kids to venture out, explore, learn, and have fun. Why not start with one of these epic summer camps in Arkansas and see what new memories your child comes home with?

For more summer adventures in Arkansas that even parents can enjoy, check out some of our favorite places to get outside and explore the Natural State.